LBK Members Reminded to Uphold Principles of Good Governance

Dr Joachim (second from right) receives a souvenir from Charles William, witnessed by Dr Jamili (right) and Harun.

23 May 2025

KUDAT: Newly appointed members of the Kudat Municipal Board (LBK) have been reminded to make the principles of good governance their guiding framework in carrying out their duties and responsibilities to the public.

Deputy Chief Minister II and Minister of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Seri Dr Joachim Gunsalam, stated that good governance is the foundation of an excellent work culture that must be instilled at every level of local government administration.

“The existing work culture must be rooted in the principles of good governance—accountability in carrying out entrusted duties, transparency in conveying and processing matters involving decision-making, and professionalism in service delivery.

“These principles should serve as the core values for all board members,” he said during the Oath-Taking and Appointment Letter Presentation Ceremony for Kudat Municipal Board Members for the 2025–2027 term, held at the Grand Ballroom, Kudat Golf & Marina Resort, today.

A total of 18 board members received their official appointment letters at the event.

Dr Joachim emphasised that board members act as a bridge between the Government, particularly Local Authorities (PBT) and the community, and are therefore responsible for voicing public concerns in policymaking and enhancing service delivery.

According to him, the appointment of board members is not merely a recognition, but also a significant trust that demands integrity, honesty, and competence in supporting the LBK’s comprehensive role in serving the needs of the local population.

“I would also like to remind all members that every action, stance, and decision must be guided by the principles of good governance to safeguard the interests of the people,” he added.

He also extended his appreciation and congratulations to LBK for receiving the 2024 Special Excellence Award for Local Authorities as well as the 2024 Executive Officer Excellence Award, awarded to Harun Ariffin, during the Ministry’s Excellent Service Awards Ceremony on 9 May.

Dr Joachim remarked that these achievements reflect LBK’s strong commitment to enhancing governance and improving the quality of public service delivery in Kudat, setting an example for other local authorities across the state.

He expressed hope that all newly appointed board members would work together to introduce creative and innovative reforms to tackle the current challenges of local governance, in line with the aspirations of the Sabah Maju Jaya roadmap and Malaysia Madani vision.

Also in attendance were Assistant Minister of Finance I and Matunggong State Assemblyperson, Datuk Julita Majungki; Banggi Assemblyperson, Datuk Mohammad Mohamarin; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Local Government and Housing, Datuk Dr Jamili Nais; Commissioner of the Kudat Municipal Board, Charles William Dabbi; Assistant District Officer of Banggi Sub-District, Jaslee Jaafar; Assistant District Officer of Matunggong Sub-District, Tinah Maralin; and Kudat Police Chief, Superintendent Haris Ibrahim.